How a web novel became a multi-media franchise with millions of copies
In short: Starting on a user-generated website, A Tale of the Secret Saint has evolved from a simple digital story into a massive commercial success. With millions of copies in circulation and an anime adaptation, this series illustrates the powerful trajectory from amateur web publishing to global entertainment.
Serialization for A Tale of the Secret Saint commenced on January 6, 2019, via the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website. Authored by Touya with art by chibi, this tale depicts Fia Ruud, a girl learning she lived 300 years ago as the saint Seraphina. After nearly dying during an encounter with a dragon named Zavilia, Fia regains her saintly powers and decides to hide her true identity. The protagonist's journey began when she used a healing potion on a black bird. This encounter nearly cost her life before her powers returned.
The series' commercial success is evident in its rapid expansion across different media. Following its initial digital serialization, the publisher Earth Star Entertainment acquired the rights and began releasing the light novel under its Earth Star Novel imprint on June 15, 2019. By June 2024, the series had reached a significant milestone with over 2.7 million copies in circulation. Its popularity was further reflected in Takarajimasha's Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi! guidebook, where it was ranked second in the tankōbon category for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 editions. Seven Seas Entertainment secured the English rights for the novels in September 2020. They also later licensed the manga adaptation for international readers.
The franchise has also expanded into manga and anime. Mahito Aobe started a manga version in December 2019, whereas the spin-off, A Tale of the Secret Saint Zero, debuted on July 15, 2022. An anime television series produced by Felix Film eventually premiered on October 3, 2026, following a delay from its original April 2026 schedule intended to ensure a higher quality production. The spin-off series was also featured in the 2026 guidebook, ranking seventh in its category. Additionally, the manga adaptation was also licensed by Seven Seas Entertainment.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: A Tale of the Secret Saint
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